Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Biarritz

Biarritz is a coastal resort town with a history as royalty’s vacation destination. In the mid 1800s, Biarritz became the top holiday location for European royalty when Napoleon III built his summer residence near the Grande Plage (also known as Hôtel du Palais today). Today, the seaside town has a large surf community since Biarritz is also known as the birthplace of surfing in Europe in the 1950s.

What was once a whaling village over a century ago is now one of the most popular beach destinations in France. Tourism has continued to thrive and there’s a plethora of wonderful hotels to choose from. Whether you are after the laid-back surfer vibes or want a more elegant stay, I’m sure you can find the best hotel.

Based on my two visits, these are my top choices for the best hotels in Biarritz (listed from high to low star ratings). I’ve included 5-star historic properties, budget finds, where I stayed and where I’m eyeing for next time. You’ll also find some basic travel tips for the area, but definitely be sure to read my full Guide to Biarritz for things to do and where to eat.

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Newest Hotel: Regina Experimental
Historic Stay: Hotel du Palais
Beachside Boutique Choice: Hotel de la Plage
Budget Find: Hotel Au Bon Coin

Tips for Staying in Biarritz

Biarritz is a top summer destination, so prices are considerably higher during the summer months. I would recommend booking hotels early as they do sell out during peak season and weekends.

No matter what time of year you visit, a room with an ocean view is worth the splurge, especially for a special occasion. I really regret not staying somewhere with an ocean view when I went.

Parking is at a premium. I was lucky to score a spot in a free lot on the outskirts of town and there are a few garages in the city center. Upscale hotels will usually offer parking onsite or valet for an additional fee.

Biarritz is easy to meander on foot, so you won’t need your car to get around. However, if you’re taking a day trip to San Sebastian or Saint Jean de Luz (as you should), you’ll want easy access to your car.

The Best Hotels in Biarritz

Regina Experimental

The Experimental Group completely renovated this historic Belle Époque property in summer of 2023. Originally built in 1907, Regina Experimental sits perched up on the cliffside with ocean views from select rooms and the restaurant. The Art Deco interiors fully lean into coastal vibes with shell details and blue hues. Enjoy a drink in the atrium that spans all 4 floors or on the patio with lighthouse views.

This property is not for those wanting to be in the thick of it though, as it is located about a mile from the town center. However, if a short walk doesn’t deter you, you will be rewarded with interiors designed by Dorothée Meilichzon and 5 star service to match.

Step even further into the storied hotel’s past and stay next door at the aptly named, Le Garage. The 27-room hotel (also part of the Experimental Group) was the former garage of the Regina.

5 stars, pool, spa, pet friendly, restaurant & bar. Check pricing and availability.

Hôtel du Palais

Undoubtedly the most famous hotel in Biarritz is the Hôtel du Palais. Commissioned by Napoleon III, the palace was built in 1854 as a summer residence and named Villa Eugenie, after his wife. Today, you can stay in one of the 142 luxury rooms and enjoy a meal at their Michelin star restaurant overlooking the ocean.

More is more at Hôtel du Palais. From the entry gate to the elegant bar, the hotel has retained its ornate finishings fit for a queen. I love that Hôtel du Palais is so dedicated to preservation and cultural heritage. They actually employee a team of six craftsmen including a woodworker, painter and upholsterer who maintain the furniture.

5 stars, spa, pool, valet, fitness center, pet friendly, fine dining, kids club… all the things! Check pricing and availability.

Hôtel de la Plage

Hôtel de la Plage is in a wonderful location right next to Plage du Port Vieux, a nice swimming cove. Completely renovated in spring of 2022, this hotel has bright coastal rooms finished with boho art pieces. Select rooms have balconies with views of Rocher de la Vierge and the beach below.

Not only is a buffet breakfast served on the rooftop, but you can also enjoy the ocean views later in the day with tapas and cocktails. Complete with a small boutique selling unique pieces made by local and international artists.

4 stars, balcony rooms, breakfast available. Check pricing and availability.

Hôtel Le Windsor Biarritz

Hôtel Le Windsor started as a 24-room family hotel in the late 1940s. The later generation expanded the hotel in the 90s by doubling the number of rooms, but made an effort to preserve the same service and quality. Today, the modern hotel is managed by the third generation.

Hôtel Le Windsor is in an unbeatable location just steps from La Grande Plage. Minimal rooms in white and blue offer a contemporary feel. I’d choose one of the ocean view rooms that overlooks the promenade below.

4 star, pet friendly, restaurant, breakfast included. Check pricing and availability.

Hôtel Littéraire Jules Verne

On a last minute trip to Biarritz in peak season, options were limited and I booked a room at Hôtel Littéraire Jules Verne. While it is a Best Western, they have softened the stiffness that can sometimes come with a corporate property. It has the decor of a boutique hotel with the consistency you can rely on from a chain.

The classic room was very petite (welcome to Europe) so you might consider upgrading to a suite. Family style rooms are also available with a small kitchenette and living space. Pet friendliness and Nuxe toiletries were nice touches that I really appreciated.

4 star, pool, breakfast available, pet friendly. Check pricing and availability.

Hôtel Le Café de Paris

Hôtel Le Café de Paris has just 19 rooms, but each one comes with an ocean view and beautiful Italian ceramic tiles. Plus with a brasserie on the bottom floor, you won’t have to go far to have seasonal Basque cuisine with local products.

The building faces out onto Plaza Bellevue with Grand Plage in the distance. I’ve walked through this square on the way to the beach from the shops. Staying here, you’d be in a prime position to easily walk to both.

4 star, breakfast available, restaurant, ocean views. Check pricing and availability.

Hotel Saint Julien

As I walked by the front of Hotel Saint Julien, I immediately noted the charming building with red shutters. This 19th century former family residence is minimally decorated, but rooms have nice accent pieces and high floors even have views of the lighthouse. Heads up: It looks like sometimes the rooms at this 3-star hotel can cost more than upgraded rooms elsewhere, so it is worth comparing.

3 star, breakfast available, pet friendly. Check pricing and availability.

Hotel Au Bon Coin

Last, but not least, Hotel Au Bon Coin is a solid option in the “no-frills” category. If you are on a budget in Biarritz, this hotel is consistently priced with rooms from $100-$200 a night (depending on how advance you book).

3 star, breakfast available. Check pricing and availability.